2 Samuel 23:18

And Abishai, the brother of Joab, the son of Zeruiah, was chief among three. And he lifted up his spear against three hundred, [and] slew [them], and had the name among three.

And Abishai {H52}, the brother {H251} of Joab {H3097}, the son {H1121} of Zeruiah {H6870}, was chief {H7218} among three {H7992}. And he lifted up {H5782} his spear {H2595} against three {H7969} hundred {H3967}, and slew {H2491} them, and had the name {H8034} among three {H7969}.

Avishai the brother of Yo'av, the son of Tz'ruyah, was chief of these three. He raised his spear against 300 men and killed them; thus he had a reputation even among the three.

Now Abishai, the brother of Joab and son of Zeruiah, was chief of the Three, and he lifted his spear against three hundred men, killed them, and won a name along with the Three.

And Abishai, the brother of Joab, the son of Zeruiah, was chief of the three. And he lifted up his spear against three hundred and slew them, and had a name among the three.

Commentary

2 Samuel 23:18 introduces Abishai, a prominent figure among King David's elite warriors known as the Mighty Men. This verse highlights his extraordinary strength and valor, placing him among the most distinguished heroes of Israel.

Context

This verse is part of an appendix to the book of 2 Samuel, specifically a list of David's most courageous and skilled soldiers. It follows a poetic section detailing David's last words and precedes accounts of his other mighty deeds. Abishai was the son of Zeruiah, David's sister, making him David's nephew and the brother of Joab, David's formidable and often ruthless commander of the army, and Asahel. The list itself serves to underscore the divine protection and blessing upon David's reign, manifested through the incredible capabilities of the men who served him.

Key Themes

  • Exceptional Valor and Strength: Abishai's feat of lifting his spear against 300 men and slaying them is a testament to his incredible individual prowess and courage. This was a remarkable display of strength in an era of hand-to-hand combat.
  • Elite Status and Leadership: Being "chief among three" signifies Abishai's high standing. While not one of the "first three" (Jashobeam, Eleazar, Shammah), he was still a leader within an elite group, distinguished by his actions and reputation. The phrase "had the name among three" reinforces his renown and recognition for his heroic deeds.
  • Loyalty and Service: These mighty men, including Abishai, were fiercely loyal to King David and instrumental in establishing and maintaining his kingdom. Their personal bravery directly contributed to David's military successes and the stability of his reign.

Linguistic Insights

The phrase "chief among three" (Hebrew: ืจึนืืฉื ื”ึทืฉึฐึผืืœึนืฉึธืื” - ro'sh hash-sheloshah) has been interpreted in various ways. Some scholars suggest it means he was the leader of a distinct group of three, or perhaps the leader of a secondary tier of mighty men, immediately following the top three. Regardless of the precise hierarchical interpretation, the text clearly indicates Abishai's preeminent status and recognition for his extraordinary deeds. His name was synonymous with great strength and military success, much like Samson's divinely enabled power in an earlier period.

Practical Application

Abishai's story inspires us to consider:

  • The Power of Individual Impact: One person's courage and skill can make a significant difference, even against overwhelming odds.
  • Recognizing and Valuing Dedication: Just as David honored his mighty men, we should recognize and appreciate those who serve with distinction and loyalty in various capacities today.
  • Facing Challenges with Strength: While we may not face literal armies, life presents many "battles." Abishai's resolve reminds us to confront challenges with courage and to draw upon our strengths, perhaps even those divinely given, to overcome them.
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Cross-References

  • 2 Samuel 10:10 (4 votes)

    And the rest of the people he delivered into the hand of Abishai his brother, that he might put [them] in array against the children of Ammon.

  • 2 Samuel 10:14 (4 votes)

    And when the children of Ammon saw that the Syrians were fled, then fled they also before Abishai, and entered into the city. So Joab returned from the children of Ammon, and came to Jerusalem.

  • 1 Chronicles 11:20 (3 votes)

    And Abishai the brother of Joab, he was chief of the three: for lifting up his spear against three hundred, he slew [them], and had a name among the three.

  • 1 Chronicles 11:21 (3 votes)

    Of the three, he was more honourable than the two; for he was their captain: howbeit he attained not to the [first] three.

  • 2 Samuel 18:2 (3 votes)

    And David sent forth a third part of the people under the hand of Joab, and a third part under the hand of Abishai the son of Zeruiah, Joab's brother, and a third part under the hand of Ittai the Gittite. And the king said unto the people, I will surely go forth with you myself also.

  • 1 Chronicles 2:16 (2 votes)

    Whose sisters [were] Zeruiah, and Abigail. And the sons of Zeruiah; Abishai, and Joab, and Asahel, three.

  • 2 Samuel 20:10 (2 votes)

    But Amasa took no heed to the sword that [was] in Joab's hand: so he smote him therewith in the fifth [rib], and shed out his bowels to the ground, and struck him not again; and he died. So Joab and Abishai his brother pursued after Sheba the son of Bichri.